55 yr Old Man with some negative side effects from Dexedrine

[flsandman1]

I've been on Dexedrine ( 40 mg per day ) for about 10 yrs and about 4 years ago started developing rapid pulse rates and elevated blood pressure. This is a common side effect of Amphetamines. My primary care physician put me on Atenolol ( 50 mg per day ). This worked great, some time was needed to get used to it as it left me lethargic in the mornings in the beginning but after a couple of weeks my body adapted to the changes and it brought my BP and pulse down to my normal ranges. After a couple of years I started having some ED issues ( “limp dick syndrome” ) which is another side effect of BP lowering drugs. I have since consulted a Cardiologist to change my Atenolol. He is admittedly not very familiar with Amphetamines and their side effects but changed my medication to Cartia ( 120 mg per day ). I tried it this weekend, gave it a couple of days and stopped taking it. On the second day my heart was not liking this medication and it took most of my self control to control my pulse and BP. I’m back on the Atenolol, feeling normal except for the ….. and still seeking an alternative.

Can anyone suggest a medication for this situation?

[Suecat3]

Hello...I'm also on 40 mgs./day of dexedrine, and have been for almost 8 years. Just recently I've developed an on-again, off-again high blood pressure. My primary prescribed hydrochlorothiazide, which is a diuretic, a little different than the meds you've taken. I've always had a high pulse rate, and this and the high BP could be due to my lupus instead of the dexedrine; I don't think anyone really knows right now. Anyway, the diuretic works pretty well for me; might be something to ask your doc about. Good luck! Sue

[addprogrammer]

flsandman1,

I'm 54 on Adderall and Atenolol - 50mg/day. The Atenonol predated the Adderall by 20 years. Minimizing salt (not eliminating it altogether) and cardio help. Try walking for 20 to 30 minutes every morning. My bp came down after just a few days.

Bob